VVT Camshaft Sprocket Phaser check

Originally Posted by RDWizard

So I found some interesting information while researching the dreaded P0011 DTC.
In the FSM EM-107 step 5 of the Inspection of Camshaft Sprocket (INT) Oil Groove, it mentions that there is an oil filter for the CVT grooves.
This is the one and only mention of it that I can find anywhere in the FSM.
Now this really sheds some light on the blown gally gasket issue!!
Think about, if the CVT filter gets clogged and the engine (oil pump) is trying to pump 100+psi oil through the gally, there is only one other place to go.
Blow out the weak gally gasket!!!
Sounds like a poor design to hide an oil filter behind the CVT covers.
The worst part is that you have to remove all of the belt driven accessories and brackets on the side of bank 1 to remove it's cover.
Either way, I think it's an important step in troubleshooting the P0011 DTC that I have not seen anybody do.
Therefor I will be doing this test next along with checking the CVT solenoids signal and Ground wires.